Recognising International Day of People with Disabilities

Each year on 3rd December, International Day of People with Disabilities is recognised across the world. International Day of People with Disabilities is a United Nations sanctioned day that was launched in 1992 and today is seen as a day that brings together a united voice to celebrate and empower disabled people.

At Tesco Ireland, we want to recognise the day to promote the rights and wellbeing of persons with disabilities and to remind you that as an employer, Everyone is Welcome at Tesco.

Ruairi Twomey, Marketing Director, had this to say in relation to the day: “We recognise the contribution that each and every one of our colleagues make in serving Ireland’s shoppers a little better every day and that as a business, Everyone is Welcome at Tesco. That’s why we’re marking this special day.”

We also spoke to some of our colleagues about what the day mens for them.

Emer Browne – Galway Store

“I think it’s really big that Tesco are recognising International Day of People with Disabilities. It makes me feel really included at Tesco. I work on checkouts and I love the social side of the job, that I can meet and talk to people every day. I had to learn my limits with my disability because sometimes I need to ask for assistance with lifting heavy products but people are always there to help me.”

Gary Messitt – Arklow Store

“It is great that we are recognising International Day of People with Disabilities. I see now that people with disabilities are really accepted and valued in the working environment and their work does not go unnoticed. I don’t see myself as having a disability but instead that challenges occur for everyone and I am no different.”

Did you know that one in seven people in Ireland have a disability? Through the Tesco Community Fund, we have also donated over €150,000 to disability-related causes, including groups such as the Irish Wheelchair Association, National Council for the Blind Ireland, the Irish Deaf Society and more.

As one of Ireland’s largest employers we will continue to support people with disabilities, both within the company and in our local communities.